Fyfe is an integrated technical services provider for wind farm development and delivery. We provide seamless solutions that can take projects from initiation to completion.
Creating a successful, well-planned wind farm development, is a complex process that involves several phases, each of which requires specialised knowledge and expertise.
As the renewable energy sector grows, so does the need for more agile, integrated solutions that help wind farm developers navigate these stages efficiently and effectively.
Fyfe offers expert knowledge of the engineering lifecycle of a wind farm project. Having comprehensive, integrated services under one roof allows us to manage the entire development process. Our clients benefit from seamless project delivery, with minimal delays and maximum value added.
Here, we take a closer look at the key stages of a wind farm project, illustrating how our approach addresses common challenges.
Stage 1: Feasibility and assessment
Every successful wind farm starts with a solid understanding of the site’s potential. A yield assessment provides insights into the wind resources at the proposed location. It also helps determine how many turbines can be installed and estimates their expected energy output, or Annual Energy Production (AEP).
At this stage, we also begin to consider transmission connections, which involves engaging with the Network Service Provider (NSP) to identify network constraints and augmentation requirements, planning connection methodology and related transmission line/cable routes.
Alongside this, an environmental assessment is carried out to evaluate the impact on sensitive areas such as heritage sites, wildlife and other ecological factors.
Fyfe’s use of advanced LiDAR surveys for terrain mapping, ensures that we identify any potential environmental challenges early on, streamlining the planning process.
Stage 2: Concept design
Once the feasibility phase is complete and there are no significant constraints related to land use, transmission connection or generation profile, the project enters the concept design stage. In this stage, we focus on the more detailed technical aspects that will guide the development.
The first activity to proceed in this phase is the micro-siting of the wind turbine generators. This exercise involves the optimised placement of the turbines. The goal is to balance AEP with the civil design, environmental and planning constraints, ensuring the turbines are positioned to capture the maximum yield.
At this stage we are undertaking civil conceptual design of the access tracks, laydown areas, and site infrastructure. The conceptual design phase of the wind farm project necessitates a rigorous evaluation of civil and access track infrastructure. We are conducting detailed analysis of site topography and soil conditions, to optimise turbine placement and access track configuration.
Preliminary geotechnical investigations are being executed to inform foundation design, ensuring structural integrity and mitigating potential long-term settlement. Concurrently, laydown area (handstand) design is addressing the spatial requirements for turbine component delivery, assembly, and crane operations, with particular attention to ground bearing capacity and drainage considerations.
The concept design phase also includes the design and development of the electrical reticulation and the substation that connects the wind farm to the grid. We begin by designing reticulation systems, including the internal electrical layouts for the wind farm’s 33kV network that connects groups of turbines through to the high voltage substation. These groups are typically connected in a ‘daisy-chain’ arrangement with a Ring Main Unit (RMU), forming the connection between each wind turbine generator. These RMUs act to collect and transfer the energy produced by these groups of wind turbine generators to the transmission substation.
Another critical task during the concept design phase is the development of the wind farm substation designs, which includes primary, secondary systems and automation designs. The development of the substation design serves mainly to inform the next phase of works i.e. grid connection and approvals, and to also engage more broadly with the market for installation and commissioning contractors.
It is also at this stage that the developers utilise the available design information to progress with the engagement of the wind turbine generator, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and the balance of plant contractors. Whilst the contracting strategies for the execution of these wind farms are varied, the outcomes are generally driven by the appetite of the OEMs to be the main contractor and wrap the scope and risk of project delivery and performance.
The preparation of all environmental impact assessments, flora/fauna studies, social impact studies, cultural and aboriginal heritage considerations and other related reports, to finalise the planning submission is undertaken concurrently with the development of the concept design. The aim is to undertake the submission of the complete Development Approval of the wind farm during this phase and engage with all the relevant stakeholders. These include the required community engagements, to obtain the approval and gather the support for the progression of the wind farm.
Stage 3: Grid connection and approvals
Gaining the approval to progress the connection to the grid and execute the Transmission Connection Agreement (TCA) is one of the most crucial, time-sensitive aspects of wind farm development.
The preparation of an Application to Connect package involves the development of multiple reports, various static and dynamic models and related simulations and review of all normal and contingent operating scenarios. Our existing relationships with Network Service Providers help ensure that grid modelling and connection processes are handled efficiently and the requirements of AEMO and the NSP are met within the required timeframes. At the end of this process, the project obtains a S5.3.4 letter, a formal acknowledgement from the NSP and AEMO, confirming the wind farm’s suitability for grid connection.
The Final Investment Decision (FID) of a wind farm project typically requires the execution of a TCA and the issuance of the S5.3.4, the approval from a planning perspective and the finalisation of the supply and construction contracts. These three elements underpin the FID decision as it aligns with the biggest risks for wind farm projects.
Throughout this process, Fyfe’s integrated approach allows us to fast-track approvals and reduce delays, an essential benefit in a sector where timelines can often extend due to regulatory hurdles.
Stage 4: Detailed design and construction
Once approvals are secured, the project enters the detailed design and construction phase, which involves finalising the engineering, procurement, and construction contracts, which cover both civil and electrical aspects of the wind farm; civil Balance of Plant (CBoP) and Electrical Balance of Plant (EBoP).
Where the OEM is responsible for the delivery and installation, Fyfe often works closely with the OEMs, to finalise the necessary engineering deliverables, contract specifications and scope of works to set up a supply and install contract. This contract helps make sure that turbines are delivered and installed without unnecessary delays or complications.
Crucially, Fyfe also provides detailed engineering services directly to EPC contractors, who frequently subcontract the design work for wind farm projects. This ensures that the final engineering plans are robust and meet all project requirements.
Another area that is critical in this phase is the final Generator Registration package that is required to be submitted to the NSP and AEMO to allow the connection of the wind farm to the grid. Fyfe will support the development of this package and work with all relevant parties to ensure that the package is submitted and all related testing is competed to demonstrate compliance (often referred to as R2 testing).
Furthermore, Fyfe offers site project engineering services throughout the construction phase, providing on-the-ground technical support and ensuring smooth project execution.
Finally, the project reaches practical completion, and the wind farm is ready to start generating electricity.
A one-stop shop for wind farm development
Fyfe offers a seamless, integrated solution for wind farm developers, handling everything from initial feasibility assessments to final construction.
Our team of engineers, environmental specialists, and technical experts work together to deliver a comprehensive service that covers all aspects of wind farm development.
By keeping everything in-house, we streamline the process, reduce reliance on multiple contractors, and ultimately save time and costs for our clients.
Fyfe offers everything under one roof, an approach that translates to smoother transitions between phases and faster project delivery.
For developers looking to navigate the complexities of wind farm development in Australia, Fyfe’s integrated services provide the efficiency, flexibility, and expertise needed to make the project a success.
To learn more about our wind farm work, or to speak to a member of our engineering team, please contact us.
